University of Minnesota Athletics
Lorin Solon
9/8/2007 12:00:00 AM | Athletics
| Lorin Solon Class of 2005 Football Baseball 1913-15 |
One of the most talented athletes to play football for the U of M, Lorin Solon was elected team captain and entered his senior year set to become the U of M’s first three-time All- American. In his first three games as a senior, Solon scored 51 points. However, his college career ended when the University found that Solon played semi-pro baseball in Havre, Mont. in the summer of 1915. He also played catcher for the Minnesota baseball team.
During his sophomore football season, Solon played at end, kicked, punted and occasionally played in the backfield as a quarterback and running back. His dominating end play was recognized by his selection to many All-Big Nine Conference Teams and All- Western Elevens. All-American first team honors included the Associated Press. Walter Camp selected him to his All-America third team.
In 1914, Coach Doc Williams switched him to fullback but still relied on Solon’s versatility and athleticism to play end, placekick and punt. The post-season honors exceeded the previous year as seven organizations selected him as a consensus pick on their All-Big Nine Conference Teams or All-Western Elevens, six at fullback and one at end. The Associated Press again recognized him on its All-American first team at fullback as did others, but Walter Camp kept him on his third team despite calls from the local press to give Western players more recognition. Solon remains one of the few players to be selected an All-American at two different positions.
Even after leaving the team mid-season his senior year, Solon remained extremely popular as evidenced by University President Vincent holding a farewell dinner in Solon’s honor when he left the U of M to play professional baseball. Solon also went on to play professional football, at one point becoming the highest paid professional football player in the country. He served in both world wars, rising to the rank of Colonel. He was awarded the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star and Oak Leaf Cluster for his service. Solon passed away in 1967.
M Club Hall of Fame
